‘Rachel’s Challenge’ Builds Kindness, Compassion at Hopkins Jr. Highs

Editor's note: The following announcement comes from Hopkins Public Schools.

Hopkins junior high students will be working with Rachel’s Challenge, a national program designed to create a culture of kindness and compassion, during the month of January. On Jan. 24, North Junior High and West Junior High will present Rachel’s Challenge to the Hopkins community. The free presentation is at 7:30 p.m. at Hopkins High School in the large auditorium. Everyone is welcome.

Rachel’s Challenge exists to equip and inspire individuals to replace acts of violence, bullying, and negativity with acts of respect, kindness and compassion. Student leadership teams at both junior highs will work with representatives from Rachel’s Challenge during the school day on Thursday, Jan. 24, to master the five challenges of the Rachel’s Challenge program:

• Look for the Best in Others
• Dream Big
• Choose Positive Influences
• Speak with Kindness 
• Start your own Chain Reaction

The community presentation is an opportunity for parents and community members to learn the principals of the student-empowering program.

About Rachel’s Challenge: The national program is based on the writings and life of 17 year-old Rachel Scott who was the first student killed at Columbine High School in 1999. Rachel left a legacy of reaching out to those who were different, who were picked on by others, or who were new at school.